Adipokines
Bioactive signalling proteins secreted by fat cells that regulate metabolism, inflammation, and appetite throughout the body.
Plain English
Patient-Friendly Explanation
Adipokines are hormone-like signalling proteins released by your fat cells that communicate with other organs throughout your body. Some adipokines promote healthy metabolism, while others can trigger inflammation. Understanding adipokines helps explain why excess body fat, particularly around the abdomen, can affect whole-body health beyond just weight.
Medical
Clinical Definition
Adipokines are bioactive peptides secreted primarily by white adipose tissue that function as endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine signalling molecules. Key adipokines include leptin (regulates appetite and energy expenditure), adiponectin (enhances insulin sensitivity and has anti-inflammatory properties), resistin (linked to insulin resistance), and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6. The dysregulation of adipokine secretion in obesity — characterised by leptin resistance and reduced adiponectin — is a central mechanism linking excess adiposity to metabolic disease.
Key Insight
Why It Matters
Understanding adipokine biology helps explain why weight loss improves conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular disease beyond just mechanical effects. Dr. Joseph Wang and the team at Accord Medical Clinic use this understanding to provide comprehensive, science-driven weight management care.
Sources
Reviewed against standard medical references.
Medically reviewed by
Family Physician & Registered Acupuncturist, Accord Medical Clinic. MBBS (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine (NUS), Graduate Diploma in Acupuncture (Singapore College of TCM).
Last reviewed: August 2026
This page is general health education, not medical advice. Whether any treatment is appropriate for you is a decision made in consultation after assessment.